Melbourne Considers Replacing Iconic Red Stair with New Grey Structure

The City of Melbourne is set to consider a proposal to replace the 20-year-old Red Stair installation in Queensbridge Square, Southbank, with a new grey stair structure. The existing Red Stair, which functions as both a public artwork and performance space, has been reported to be in a state of disrepair, including a rotting facade and damaged floor, and has received public criticism. The new plan, outlined in a report by the Director of City Design, Luke Flanagan, aims to create a more accessible and sustainable urban environment.

Background to the Proposal

The Red Stair, an award-winning public artwork, has been a feature of Queensbridge Square for two decades. In 2024, an international design competition was launched to find a replacement for the structure. However, this competition has since been abandoned under the new proposal.

According to the report, site constraints and a stated community desire for a timely and cost-effective resolution led to the decision to pursue the current plan.

Key Proposed Changes

The new proposal outlines several key modifications for the Queensbridge Square site, focusing on improved design, expanded public areas, and sustainable materials.

Structure Design: The height of the structure would be reduced, and a new viewing platform would be created to replace the existing top room. This change is intended to reduce visual bulk and enhance sightlines and visual connections within the square.
Public Space Expansion: The plan suggests an increase of 45 square meters in the publicly accessible area of Queensbridge Square.
Materials: The original red plywood would be replaced with lower maintenance cladding, resulting in a grey color scheme for the new stairs.
Green Space Integration: Forty square meters of the existing concrete square would be converted into green space. This landscaping is designed to reduce stormwater runoff and provide shade, aligning with community interest in city greening and the City of Melbourne's 'Garden City' initiative.

Core Objectives of the Plan

The proposal aims to achieve several important objectives for the renewed space and wider precinct.

Renewing the space to welcome diverse individuals for meeting and connection.
Supporting the wider precinct as a people-centered, creative, and sustainable urban environment.
Enhancing the space for local events, unique Melbourne experiences, and showcasing local creative talent.

Financial Overview

The preliminary estimated cost for the restructure is $1.73 million, excluding GST. Current funding allocated for the project is $230,000 for the 2025/26 financial year.

To deliver the project, the report suggests that the council would need to allocate an additional $466,000 in 2026/27 and $1.03 million in the 2027/28 budget.

Next Steps

The proposal is scheduled for a vote at the upcoming meeting of the Future Melbourne Committee on March 3.